This first idea come directly from under my tree. One present that my daughter will receive in just over a week is a backpack filled with art supplies. I try to use Christmas to stock up on fun activities for the year- or at least until the Easter bunny comes and replenishes us.
I chose the skip hop backpack in the ladybug design. Of course I got it on sale, and you can find it in a number of stores as well as amazon, in many many different animal designs. My daughter will be 2 in February so the toddler size was a must. I couldn't love this backpack more. It's adorable, and is the perfect size for her to take a snack, a book, a toy and a water bottle with her wherever we go. Obviously my backpack needs a little steam since I ordered it online and it's a tad wrinkled.
The next step in my backpack of artsy fun was to collect some age appropriate art supplies to fill it with. If you're in a hurry you could accomplish this process in one trip to Staples, but since I'm a girl who likes a bargain I had to plan. Sometimes last minute purchases can't be avoided, but I have always felt that the 11th hour was for people who can afford it. Since I wanted to fill this bag to the brim I did some of my Christmas shopping during the back-to-school sales weeks. Here was my loot:
Crayola, in my opinion, is unbeatable. I have tried many other brands hoping to get good results with cheaper products but it's just a waxy breakable mess. So I picked up the 24 count crayons, colored pencils, thin washable markers, and two boxes of the thick washable markers for between $.25 and $.50 a package. Back-to-school shopping is not just for students and teachers. Always take advantage when you can. In fact at the time, I bought 10 boxes of crayons and just dolled them out as needed. The finger paints, pom poms, gel pens and construction paper I got from the dollar store. The dollar store should never be overlooked when it comes to art supplies. The color wonder sets I got from Kohl's on Black Friday when they were about 60% off. And the washable paint set I picked up at Target for $2.50 along with the paint brushes that were on sale for less than $2.
The last minute gem that made me so happy is a book by skip hop that features the backpack I purchased! Since my mom is a teacher, she and I were able to attend a Scholastic Book Fair this week at their warehouse. Since they were trying to cut down on their stock and make room for new books, their entire warehouse was 50% off. I'm sure you can get this book for the full price of $4 and not have it break the bank, but like I said- discounts are my high. It's a board book with pull tabs for hidden surprises. Perfect for a toddler!
All told I probably spent about $20 on this gift and it will give my daughter creative fun for a year. My only disclaimer is that I bought a number of items which are recommended for ages greater than hers. But I know my child and what she can handle. So with the ample amounts of supervision that she will have for projects such a painting, I'm not worried. You should fill your bag with all the things that your child can safely enjoy. Keeping in mind that next Christmas is a year away, and maybe they won't be ready for markers now, but they will in 6 months. :-)
I also think this would make a great birthday present and the skip hop company has a ton of matching accessories if your child is not interested in art supplies. You could get the matching lunch box, or water bottle. They even have matching towels and blankets. So many possibilities. Merry Christmas!!
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